Old Barrhaven East is home to a culinary gem named Khokha Eatery. The Pakistani food restaurant features delicious menu options such as chapli kebab, butter chicken poutine, biryani (chicken and lamb), and much more. This eatery, born from a desire to bring authentic Pakistani street food to Ottawa, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural immersion, a sensory journey into the heart of Pakistan’s rich culinary traditions.
You May have seen this colourful and vibrant car driving around Barrhaven. This is the Khokha Eatery SUV, and it is one of Canada’s very first handpainted SUVs featuring traditional Pakistani truck art, a Homage to Pakistani tradition.
Upon entering Khokha, guests are greeted with a vibrant décor, mirroring the colorful culture of Pakistan. The restaurant’s layout and design elements, from the truck art to the lively color palette, are thoughtfully chosen to enhance the guest experience. Each corner of Khokha tells a story, inviting diners on a journey through Pakistan’s streets. The vibrancy of the colours and the friendly, hospitable approach to customer service has a mood-boosting effect that patrons often speak of.
The restaurant was initially created to be a takeout venue. However, customers often praised the vibe inside of Khokha and requested the dine-in option. Khokha has 18 seats available inside and 12 seats available outside under a covered canopy from the May long weekend to the middle of October.
Khokha’s menu is a testament to Pakistani culinary diversity, offering a range of dishes that evoke nostalgia for those familiar with the cuisine and curiosity for those new to it. From their signature Chapli Kebabs, known for their distinct taste and texture, to the aromatic Biryani, each dish is a celebration of flavors. The menu also features unique items like Bun Kebabs, a Pakistani twist on burgers. Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday they offer a special of buy one get one 50% off on mains. On the weekends customers can benefit from the traditional breakfast special.
Khokha’s Biryani (chicken $18, lamb $22) is a flavorful concoction of spiced chicken or lamb, layered with aromatic rice. The chicken Biryani, particularly popular, features a drumstick and a thigh, while the lamb version boasts tender boneless pieces. The dish is served with raita which is a yogurt mix that you can pour onto the delicious dish to optimize to your liking.
Chapli Kebabs ($18) are not your ordinary kebabs. Made with ground beef, onions, and authentic Peshawari spices, these kebabs are served over naan bread, offering a unique taste that sets them apart from other varieties. The dish is served with mint chutney as a sauce on the side.
Butter Chicken Poutine ($9) is a fusion dish incorporating the classic Canadian poutine with a Pakistani twist. The gravy is replaced with butter chicken curry and St. Albert’s cheese curds on top of crispy fries, topped with cilantro.
Khokha Roll (chicken or beef $13) this wrap combines house-made bread, akin to a thick tortilla, with succulent chicken tikka, onions, cilantro, and a special house-made Khokha sauce, offering a delightful fusion of flavors.
Bun Kebab ($10) a Pakistani take on the burger, this dish features a beef, chicken, or veggie patty, layered with onions, coleslaw, an omelet, and a distinctive green chutney, offering a unique twist on the classic burger.
Beyond traditional dishes, Khokha accommodates various dietary preferences, offering vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. The restaurant is peanut-free, and cashew nuts are used in the preparation of some dishes. Everything on the menu is Halal. The establishment is also wheelchair accessible. Their commitment to inclusivity is evident in their carefully curated menu, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Emphasizing local sourcing and sustainability, Khokha ensures that its ingredients are fresh and contribute to the local economy. They source their proteins and vegetables from nearby suppliers, embodying their philosophy of giving back to the community.
Students, military, teachers, and healthcare workers all benefit from a discount offered by Khokha Eatery. The owners emphasize that they love to give back to those who make the community safe and beautiful.
KhoKha also has a variety of fresh desserts that are ready to go. A customer favourite among the desserts is the Kheer. It is the Pakistani version of rice pudding made with rice, creamy thickened milk and rose water. Alongside the beverage options available at Khokha there is one that stands out from the rest for its rarity in the Ottawa area. The Pakola is Pakistan’s version of Coca-Cola. The soda has a sweet unique taste that can not be compared to common sodas.
The inception of Khokha Eatery was inspired by the lack of Pakistani street food options in Ottawa. The owners saw a gaping need for a place that specializes in Pakistani street food. This led to the creation of Khokha, a term traditionally used for small roadside shops in Pakistan, offering a variety of essential items and known for their delicious food.
Behind Khokha’s success is a duo of expertise and passion. Zubair brings over 35 years of hospitality experience. His strategic support complements Zermina, her passion for food and providing quality dishes form the core of Khokha’s ethos. Zermina ensures no shortcuts are taken in the process of bringing quality food to her customers. Meticulous care and effort are put into every order that is created for the patrons of Khokha Eatery.
Strategically located in the growing market of Barrhaven, Khokha benefits from its diverse demographics and proximity to local schools and OC Transpo’s Longfields 1A bus station. This location is not just a choice of convenience but a deliberate decision to embed the restaurant in the fabric of the community.
Khokha is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. Whether it’s the family-friendly environment, the engaging decor, or the warm hospitality, Khokha strives to make each visit memorable. Their approach to customer service, combined with their delectable cuisine, makes Khokha a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Pakistani culture and flavors.
Also, don’t forget to look up! The kites hanging from the ceiling add to the vibrance of Khokha Eatery. Kites are a big part of Pakistani culture, large festivals, and competitions evolve around kite flying!
Address of Restaurant: 605 Longfields Dr Unit 13, Ottawa, ON K2J 6T7
Parking: Street parking and parking lot
Closest Cross Streets: Via Campanale Ave & Via Modugno Pl
Phone Number: 613 440 3999
Website Address: https://khokhaeatery.com/
Menu: https://khokhaeatery.com/menu/
Catering Menu: https://khokhaeatery.com/catering/
Email of restaurant: info@khokhaeatery.com
Name of Owners: Zermina, Zubair
Opening Date: Feb 3rd 2021
Opening hours: Monday-Closed, Tuesday 11:45 a.m.–8 p.m., Wednesday 11:15 a.m.–8 p.m., Thursday 11:15 a.m.–8 p.m., Friday 11:15 a.m.–8:30 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
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